1 Samuel 22:15
Did I then beginne to enquire of God for him? be it farre from mee: let not the king impute any thing vnto his seruant, nor to all the house of my father: for thy seruant knew nothing of all this, lesse or more. 1 Samuel 22:15 (KJV)
In this verse we hear Ahimelech the priest addressing King Saul. The background unfolds in the preceding chapters. David, fleeing Saul’s relentless pursuit, arrives at the city of Nob and seeks aid from Ahimelech. Unaware of Saul’s hostility toward him, Ahimelech welcomes David, providing the sword of Goliath and the consecrated bread that was reserved for the priests. This act of hospitality occurs in 1 Samuel 21 and demonstrates the priest’s willingness to help a distressed traveler.
Later, Doeg the Edomite reports to Saul that he saw David at Nob with Ahimelech. Saul summons Ahimelech and accuses him of conspiring with David. Verse 15 records Ahimelech’s response to these accusations. He declares, “Did I then begin to enquire of God for him? be it far from me,” refusing any claim that he had sought divine counsel on David’s behalf. He pleads, “let not the king impute any thing unto his servant, nor to all the house of my father,” asking that the king not lay blame on him or his family. He concludes, “for thy servant knew nothing of all this, less or more,” affirming his ignorance of any plot and distancing himself from any wrongdoing.
Ahimelech’s defense highlights his loyalty, integrity, and desire to maintain a clear conscience before God and before the king. Even under the threat of severe accusation, he stands firm in truthfulness, refusing to admit guilt he does not possess. The passage reminds believers of the importance of honesty and righteousness when faced with unjust charges. It also underscores the tragic consequences that can follow when a ruler, like Saul, allows suspicion to override justice. Ultimately, Ahimelech’s plea serves as a timeless example of maintaining integrity amid danger and opposition, encouraging readers to uphold truth and moral clarity in their own lives.
